Cumulative Chemical Exposure in Food Systems and Implications for Human Health

Abstract

This study evaluates cumulative chemical exposure in food systems and its implications for human health, focusing on combined exposure from environmental contaminants, food additives, and natural compounds. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent evidence to examine how multiple chemical sources contribute to complex exposure patterns in modern diets. The findings indicate that human exposure occurs through mixtures of chemicals rather than isolated substances, leading to cumulative effects shaped by repeated intake and biological accumulation. Key processes such as bioaccumulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption are identified as central mechanisms influencing health outcomes. The results highlight that current risk assessment approaches may not fully capture the complexity of real-world exposure scenarios. This study emphasizes the need for integrative frameworks that consider mixture effects, cumulative exposure, and system-level interactions in evaluating food safety and protecting human health